Welcome to the national Federation of gypsy liaison groups

Please note the new e-mail address for NFGLG is natglg@outlook.com

"An Unsafe Distance: the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Excluded People in England "

Doctors of the World has launched a report ("An unsafe distance") on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on excluded people in England.Based on a Rapid Needs Assessment (RNA) carried out at the height of the COVID-19, An unsafe distance shows excluded groups are being left behind in the UK’s COVID-19 response as control measures amplify existing health inequalities and put life-saving advice and care further out of reach. Researchers looked at the pandemic’s effect on a wide range of groups including Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities.The full RNA made a series of recommendations for the NHS, health services and community and voluntary sector organisations, as well as central and local government. Even though the study focuses on England, its recommendations are valid across the UK.You can read the report here: https://www.doctorsoftheworld.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/covid19-brief-rna-report.pdf​

UNAUTHORISED ENCAMPMENT MAPPING

In order to get a better picture of the number of families who are living on Unauthorised Encampments during the current “lockdown” period and the facilities being provided to meet their needs, we are sending a brief questionnaire to every local authority in England. You can see the questionnaire and the explanatory letter that accompanies it here

A positive message from West Midlands Police

We're that there are still threats to evict (and, in some cases, evictions actually taking place) even though the Government is advising people not to move during the current Covid-19 pandemic, so it was encouraging to receive an email from the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner's Office which included the following:

"I would like to assure you that in the West Midlands, ourselves, West Midlands Police and the seven local authorities have an agreed response to Gypsy and Traveller communities at this time which is to tolerate unauthorised encampments wherever possible, offer an enhanced needs assessment, provide water and sanitation for them to stay on an agreed site - with the use of any appropriate powers - given the health and welfare needs of these individuals without moving them on. For example, Walsall have established a temporary transit site at pace to accommodate the GRT community in which Seven Trent has installed water pipes for clean drinkable water and there are separate toilets for those with and without symptoms of Covid-19" to edit.

COVID-19 – MITIGATING IMPACTS ON GYPSY & TRAVELLER COMMUNITIES

The Government have (at last!) produced the promised guidance (COVID-19 – MITIGATING IMPACTS ON GYPSY & TRAVELLER COMMUNITIES) in the form of a letter to local authorities from Stephen Greenhalgh, Minister for Communities, read the letter here. It may not include all that we wanted (for example, an instruction for local authorities not to evict) but at the very least it's providing guidance that was previously sadly missing and it's something to which we will be able to refer when engaging with local authorities.In the meantime please let us know of any threatened/actual evictions (we are currently aware of ten, including two actual evictions) that you hear of and any instances of local authorities failing to provide adequate sanitary facilities (loos, water, washing facilities) as we will use this information to up-date MHCLG and put pressure on the councils involved.

Gypsy and Traveller communities and the Covid-19 virus - a Government response

​On 22nd March we wrote to Rt. Hon. Robert Jenrick MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government asking him to produce guidance for local authorities regarding non-eviction of and facilities for those living on unauthorised encampments as a matter of urgency. Here is the Government's response

You may have seen Channel 4's dreadful documentary "The Truth about Travellers Crime" on Thursday 16th April. Read the complaint we have submitted to Channel 4 and Ofcom here

Civil society monitoring report on implementation of the national Roma integration strategy in the United Kingdom - Identifying blind spots in Roma inclusion policy

The European Commission have published the Year 3 "Civil society monitoring report on implementation of the national Roma integration strategy in the United Kingdom" . This identifies blind spots in Roma inclusion policies . For a link to the report click on the "Europe" tab above

ERGO Network response to the Winter Package 2020

On 26 February 2020, the European Commission published the so-called Winter Package, comprising the 28 Country Reports2020 (including the United Kingdom), and the usual Communication on Country Reports, in the framework of the 2020 European Semester (which looked at “Assessment of progress on structural reforms, prevention and correction of macroeconomic imbalances, and results of in-depth reviews”).

The European Roma Grassroots Organisations (ERGO) Network (of which NFGLG is a member) has warmly welcomed the explicit mention of the European Roma in the Communication on the Country Reports, which states “Equal access to high-quality education and training from an early age is also essential to promote equality of opportunities and to foster inclusion, including of underrepresented groups such as Roma...”. However, we are disappointed that the Roma (which under the European definition includes Gypsies and Travellers) are mentioned solely under education and training. There are no references to the fact that Roma people in Europe face poverty and social exclusion at rates of over 80% in most Member States, that their employment, health, housing and other indicators are extremely low compared to the majority of the population, and that antigypsyism and discrimination continue to be rampant.This approach is mirrored by the vast majority of the individual Country Reports included in the Package, according to the review performed by the ERGO Network and its national members. The Key Messages derived from this analysis are as follows:

Key Messages

1. Only 6 Country Reports explicitly refer to the Roma, despite most of them across Europe experiencing severe discrimination, marginalisation and segregation, poverty, poor living conditions, and very low employment, education, and health outcomes.2. The National Roma Integration Strategies are not given enough prominence and support in the vast majority of Country Reports, evidencing a lack of effective integration of the EU Roma Framework in the European Semester and its processes.3. The national approach to Roma rights and inclusion continues to be piecemeal in most countries, while a comprehensive, integrated policy response, rooted in realities across all social areas and equally tackling antigypsyism, is lacking.4. The approach to Roma communities is consistent with an unfortunate lack of prioritizing of issues related to ethnic minorities and discrimination throughout the Country Reports.5. Civil society organisations are only rarely mentioned as key partners in the design, implementation, and monitoring of public policies, thus weakening the effectiveness of interventions, as well as undermining ownership and democratic decision-making processes. Specific points made with regard to the United Kingdom are:“In the United Kingdom, our members are equally disappointed that there is no reference to Roma or Travellers whatsoever in their country’s Report. While a UK version of a National Roma Integration Strategy was promised by the Government, the current Covid-19 crisis will likely lead to delays in its production. Hopefully, it will also delay Government plans to criminalise trespassing, which members deem very damaging.Ethnic minorities are a staggering absent dimension in most Country Reports. In the Report for the Czech Republic, there are references to ethnic minorities in what concerns indebtedness, and increasing their labour market participation. France, Latvia, Sweden and the United Kingdom are the only other countries whose Reports refer to minorities, although the phrasing is vague... There is a reference to “ethnic minority background” regarding ESF-related training in the Report for the United Kingdom, as well as "Children with a minority background are more likely to be in relative poverty, with 45% currently living in relative poverty"” You can access the full report at: http://ergonetwork.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Winter-Package-Country-Reports-ERGO-Response-March-2020-1.pdf

Gypsy and Traveller communities and Covid-19 virus

It has been a week since we were told by the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government that guidance for local authorities regarding non-eviction of and facilities for those living on unauthorised encampments was imminent. A week on and there is still no guidance, even though we are aware of local authorities who are seeking to evict people. Over the weekend we wrote to the relevant Government Ministers asking them to produce the guidance as a matter of urgency. View the letter here

We'll let you know what happens.

Job Opportunities at Irish Community Care

Irish Community Care have some exciting job opportunities. Clink on the link to find out more here and here

Follow this link to see NFGLG's response to the Government's consultation on "Strengthening police powers to tackle unauthorised encampments" here

A pilot research project into the psychological effects of hate crime on Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities

Buckinghamshire New University are undertaking a pilot research project for GATE Herts, funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee (MCHLG). The project aims to establish an evidence base for the significant anecdotal evidence that highlights the ‘ripple effect’ of experiencing hate crime on mental health. In particular it has been suggested that repeated exposure to hate crime may be implicated in high incidences of suicide (or para-suicide) within Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities.

Further information and contact details for project leads can be found here

We would be grateful if you could complete the survey and disseminate to your networks to enable GATE Herts to reach as many organisations, service users and community members as possible.

​Andy Shallice was the most dedicated of workers and he will be sadly missed, God has called him back far too early and Roma have lost a great advocate.​Andy worked so hard on the Roma Civil Society monitoring work and on top of all the work undertook for Roma Support Group he also made time to make a recent trip to Brussels, for the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups, attending the ERGO Network Annual Public Conference, November 2019 (Roma access to mainstream education).

Fastidious in every way he wrote up a detailed report to share. Andy would not let any matter drop and pursued an answer like a “dog with a bone” not giving up until he had his answers. He will be missed so much.

Congratulations to NFGLG Trustee Isaac Blake,and NFGLG member organisation Romani Cultural and Arts Company for RomArchive winning a prestigious award.

"Paris, 29 October 2019 – The winners of the 2019 European Heritage Awards / Europa Nostra Awards, Europe’s top honour in the field, were celebrated with the Grande Soirée du Patrimoine Européen at the recently restored Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris. On this occasion, Plácido Domingo, President of Europa Nostra, announced the 7 Grand Prix laureates. The Grand Prix winners were selected by a jury of experts and the Board of Europa Nostra from among this year’s 25 winning achievements.Under the category ‘Research’ the RomArchive – Digital Archive of the Roma won the prize. RomArchive is an international digital archive for Romani arts – a growing collection of art of all types, complemented by historical documents and scholarly texts. The archive enables the Roma to reclaim and form the narrative around their community.Isaac Blake led a team of academics and researchers in collating appropriate items and artefacts for the RomArchive. While “hegemonic” archives have almost exclusively portrayed Roma in stereotypical ways, RomArchive focuses on their self-representation: New narratives will emerge, reflecting the heterogeneity of the Roma’s diverse national and cultural identities. The wealth of their artistic and cultural production – tightly interwoven with that of Europe as a whole, centuries old, lively and varied to this very day – will become visible and publicly accessible. This way, the project seeks to counter persistent stereotypes and deep-seated prejudices. RomArchive is thus addressed not only to Europe’s largest minority, but also to Europe’s social majorities.

Isaac Blake, Director of the Romani Cultural and Arts Company says: “I am very proud that we were key leaders in the RomArchive and developed a significant contribution through our Dance Archive. This is a far-reaching piece of work.”​Nick Capaldi, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Wales says “Culture is strengthened by the diverse experience and creativity of all sections of contemporary society. In spite of globalisation – perhaps because of it – we find ourselves living in an increasingly fractured society where all too often we can seem small‑minded, mean‑spirited and ill at ease with ourselves. The RomArchive initiative provides an important and timely reminder of the dynamism of the Roma traditions. A tolerant and fair society recognises the creativity of all its citizens. We warmly recognise this celebration of the creativity and identity of an often ignored community.” Jane Hutt, Deputy Minister and Chief Whip and whose work covers the Romani community said, “Congratulations to the Romani Cultural and Arts Company for the excellent work they’ve undertaken in Wales and across Europe in the development of RomArchive. Promoting the works of Welsh Romani’s such as Howell Wood is an excellent way of showcasing the contributions of the community. The arts help us to celebrate diversity and break down feelings of distrust, ignorance and prejudice; they have a vital role in creating a fairer, more equal and more tolerant society.“Last June, Welsh Government published its ‘Enabling Gypsies, Roma and Travellers’ Plan which seeks to tackle some of the fundamental injustices faced by these communities. The publication of this Plan reinforces our commitment to improving equality, providing opportunities and narrowing the gaps experienced by Gypsies, Roma and Travellers across Wales.”"Europa Nostra’s press release: https://www.europanostra.org/2019-grand-prix-winners-announced/

An insider’s guide to working with Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities Training day

Date: Tuesday 17th December 2019 (9.30 AM – 5:00 PM)Venue: First Space Chapter Arts Centre, Market Rd, Cardiff CF5 1QEAdmission: The cost for the day (including light refreshments and lunch) is £162.29 per delegate, if you book before the Tuesday 3rd December2019 and £183.85 per delegate if you book between Wednesday 4th December 2019 and Monday 16th December 2019. Places will only be secured with a confirmed payment.Organisers: The Romani Cultural & Arts CompanyWho should attend this training?This course is suitable for anyone interested in ensuring that their services are inclusive and accessible for the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, in meeting the needs of ‘hard-to-reach’ communities, and in addressing the intersection of ethnicity, race, class, gender and inequalities.It would be particularly useful for those who work in:

Academia and Research

Accommodation and Housing

Early Years

Education

Environmental Services

Equalities

Fire, Police and Justice Services

Government: local, regional and national

Planning

Public Health

Social Services

Transport

Voluntary and Third Sector organisations

Why should you attend this training?It will assist you to:

Ensure effective engagement with the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities in your particular area

Address the range of policies and strategies necessary to empower Romani and Traveller families and individuals, especially girls and young women, LGBT Romani and Traveller individuals, children and youth, and the elderly in these communities, to overcome the disadvantages and obstacles they face in accessing services and provision on a daily basis

Build understanding, strengthen knowledge and make informed decisions in your interactions with people from the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities

Be better able to assess the needs of the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities in Wales

AimsTo increase awareness about the cultural diversity of Romani and Traveller communities across England and Wales, addressing issues of discrimination and exclusion, examining the needs of Gypsy, Roma, Travellers, to inspire and improve the services and provision delivered to GRT communities, and to generate trust and understanding between GRT communities and local authority service providers.Learning Objectives

To achieve a broader and more comprehensive understanding of the complex needs of Romani and Traveller communities, from local, national and international perspectives;

To develop a level of knowledge that will strengthen and improve staff and officers’ work, related to health, education, housing and accommodation, training, justice and law enforcement;

To introduce knowledge regarding the differences between Romani and Traveller communities and their cultures, languages and origins, insofar as is useful to participants in the training, with the aim of inspiring culturally sensitive ‘best practice’ and improving service delivery to all sections of the community;

To introduce to participants examples of community members who are ‘Community Champions‘ role models and who can challenge the prevailing stereotypes of Romani and Travellers, or the negative images of ‘Gypsies’, present in media and popular press;

OutcomesBy the end the session participants will have:

Increased their knowledge of the culture, traditions and history of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (this includes a timeline of key historical events and legislation);

Developed an understanding of diversity within the Romani and Traveller communities (that is, who are Gypsies, Roma and Travellers?);

Increased their awareness regarding the prejudice and discrimination faced by Romani and Traveller communities in Wales, the UK and more widely across the Europe, in particular Romani and Traveller women, LGBT Roma, older Travellers;

Identified obstacles to accessing their own services that Romani and Traveller people experience, and attitudinal issues, or barriers to equality of delivery in services such as housing, accommodation, education, health, employment, safeguarding and other public services, that inhibit the delivery of quality provision to GRT communities;

Improved participants’ understandings of how to engage effectively with the Romani and Traveller communities, particularly over issues of exclusion and marginalisation, and what they can do to address these and ensure inclusion in the delivery of services;

Developed an Action Plan that will put their learning into practice, in the workplace;

Established a baseline of knowledge and support that can be accessed to assist officers in carrying out their statutory duties.

General InformationThe Romani Cultural Arts Company is the leading Romani and Traveller community-based organisation in Wales, using the arts and culture as a vehicle for advocacy, education and empowerment, amongst the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities and the wider society in Wales. RCAC also supports individuals to become “Community Champions”, as actors and agents of change in their own communities, making a difference for themselves and the wider society. RCAC is managed by a Board (voluntary management committee) made up of representatives from the GRT communities, meaning that community members have a role as decision-makers and are part of the process of shaping the advocacy and rights agenda that RCAC promotes.The Company believes it is essential that the GRT communities be at the forefront of social progress and positive developments in social inclusion, in the struggle or the recognition of GRT rights and promoting inter-cultural understanding. Within Wales and increasingly across the UK, our advice and expertise is sought by local governments, policy-makers, decision-takers and local or national institutions. We are asked to evaluate the effectiveness of their policies and strategies or to support them in consultation to ensure the voice of the GRT communities they serve, is heard.We lead on advocacy for these vulnerable communities, influencing the policy and strategy agendas in the context of a devolved Welsh Government and, increasingly internationally across the UK, and we deliver quality training for those who work with Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities, who wish to improve their reach and their impact.

Please note: the training day will be held at Chapter Arts Centre, Cardiff

Job Opportunity at Leeds Gate

Leeds GATE are looking to employ a Criminal Justice & Hate Crime Advocate. The role will work to two objectives:

To advocate on behalf of victims of hate crime. The role is part of the local delivery of a ground breaking national partnership led by GATE Herts, Report Racism GRT, to report, record and address hate crime to Gypsy, Traveller and Roma communities. The role provides 1-2-1 support to a caseload of individuals affected by hate crime, using excellent case management skills (engagement, empathy and empowerment). It also involves strategic objectives to raise awareness – including training, reports and data gathering.

To pilot advocacy support to individuals and families affected by the Criminal Justice System including, 1-2-1 and group support to inmates at two West Yorkshire prisons and support to families with loved ones affected by the Criminal Justice system.

ACERT (Advisory Council for the Education of Romany and Other Travellers) will be holding its Annual Conference on Saturday 28th September 2019 at King's College London. We'll be putting further details on this website once they become available.

Developing measures to combat antigypsyism after 2020: Guidance for European and national stakeholders

Civil society monitoring report on implementation of the national Roma integration strategy in the United Kingdom - Assessing progress in key policy areas of the strategy

The European Commission have published the Year 2 "Civil society monitoring report on implementation of the national Roma integration strategy in the United Kingdom" . This assesses progress in key policy areas: Employment, Accommodation , Health Care and Education. For a link to the report click on the "Europe" tab above.

Presentation to the Race Disparity Unit

On Tuesday 2nd July NFGLG Trustee & Co-ordinator Siobhan Spencer and Policy Officer Adrian Jones gave a very well-received presentation to the Government's Race Disparity Unit on "Key Equalities Issues for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in the UK - What does the data show us?".

​Gypsies, Roma, Travellers: Rights & Responsibilities

An insider’s guide to working with Romani and Traveller communities in the United Kingdom

Date: Tuesday 9th July 2019

Venue: First Space Chapter Arts Centre, Market Rd, Cardiff CF5 1QE

Admission: The cost for the day (including light refreshments and lunch) is £160.49 per delegate, if you book before the Tuesday 25th June and £181.81 per delegate if you book between Wednesday 26th June and Monday 8th July 2019.

Places will only be secured with a confirmed payment.

Organisers – The Romani Cultural & Arts Company

Who should attend this training?

This course is suitable for anyone interested in ensuring that their services are inclusive and accessible for the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities. It would be particularly useful for those who work in:

Academia and Research

Accommodation and Housing

Early Years

Education

Environmental Services

Equalities

Fire, Police and Justice Services

Government: local, regional and national

Planning

Public Health

Social Services

Transport

Voluntary and Third Sector organisations

Why should you attend this training?

It will assist you to:

Ensure effective engagement with the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities in your particular area

Be understanding and informed in your interactions with people from the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities

Be better able to assess the needs that address the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities in Wales

Aims

To increase awareness about the cultural diversity in the UK, to address issues and the needs of Gypsy, Roma, Travellers in the UK, to inspire and improve the services and provision delivered to GRT communities, and to generate trust and understanding between GRT communities and local authority service providers.

Learning Objectives

To achieve a broader and more comprehensive understanding of the complex needs of Romani and Traveller communities, from a local and international perspective;

To develop a level of knowledge that will enhance and inform staff and officers’ work, related to health, education, housing and accommodation, training, justice and law enforcement;

To introduce knowledge regarding the differences between Romani and Traveller communities and their cultures, languages and origins, insofar as is useful to participants in the training, with the aim of inspiring best practice and improving service delivery across all sectors;

To introduce to participants, examples of community members who are role models and who can challenge the prevailing stereotypes of Romani and Travellers, or the negative images of ‘Gypsies’, present in media and popular press;

Outcomes

By the end the session participants will have:

Increased their knowledge of the culture, traditions and history of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (this includes a timeline of key historical events and legislation);

Developed an understanding of diversity within the Romani and Traveller communities (that is, who are Gypsies, Roma and Travellers?);

Increased their awareness regarding the prejudice and discrimination faced by Romani and Traveller communities in Wales, the UK and more widely across the Europe;

Identified obstacles to access and attitudinal issues, or barriers in services such as housing, accommodation, education, health, employment, safeguarding and other public services, that inhibit the delivery of quality provision to GRT communities;

Improved participants’ understandings of how to engage effectively with the Romani and Traveller communities, particularly over issues of exclusion and marginalisation, and what they can do to address these and ensure inclusion in the delivery of services;

Developed an Action Plan that will put their learning into practice, in the workplace;

Established a baseline of knowledge and support that can be accessed to assist officers in carrying out their statutory duties.

General Information

The Romani Cultural Arts Company is the leading Romani and Traveller community-based organisation in Wales, using the arts and culture as a vehicle for advocacy, education and empowerment, amongst the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller (GRT) communities and the wider society in Wales. RCAC also supports individuals to become “Community Champions”, as actors and agents of change in their own communities, making a difference for themselves and the wider society. RCAC is managed by a Board (voluntary management committee) made up of representatives from the GRT communities, meaning that community members have a role as decision-makers and are part of the process of shaping the advocacy and rights agenda that RCAC promotes.

The Company believes it is essential that the GRT communities be at the forefront of social progress and positive developments in social inclusion, in the struggle or the recognition of GRT rights and promoting inter-cultural understanding. Within Wales and increasingly across the UK, our advice and expertise is sought by local governments, policy-makers, decision-takers and local or national institutions. We are asked to evaluate the effectiveness of their policies and strategies or to support them in consultation to ensure the voice of the GRT communities they serve, is heard.

We lead on advocacy for these vulnerable communities, influencing the policy and strategy agendas in the context of a devolved Welsh Government and, increasingly internationally across the UK, and we deliver quality training for those who work with Gypsy, Roma, Traveller communities, who wish to improve their reach and their impact.

The Romani Cultural & Arts Company (RCAC) is proud to invite you to the LGBTIQ Gypsy, Roma & Traveller (GRT) Conference. The event, hosted by National Assembly for Wales, will feature Dr Daniel Baker (England) and Christine Lee (Wales) plus guests including Vera Kurtic (Council of Europe/Serbia) and Dezso Mate (Hungary). This varied range of speakers with their diverse areas of expertise will open up debate regarding LGBTIQ issues as they relate to GRT individuals and communities.

This event is one of many that RCAC is currently co-ordinating. We are excited to be giving a ‘minority within a minority’ a platform and a voice. This LGBTIQ GRT conference presents a unique opportunity to participate in discussion with an international panel of inspiring speakers.

Dr Daniel Baker, Romani artist, curator and academic says: “Discussions regarding the significance of intersecting identities are more important than ever. By recognising commonalities across difference through shared experience and knowledge we move closer toward a more caring society.”

Isaac Blake; Director of the Romani Cultural & Arts Company says: “An open, tolerant society cannot pick and choose which groups should merit tolerance and understanding. Every individual living on our beautiful planet deserves to be judged on their own words and actions; not on their race, nationality, religion, sexuality or family background. Let’s stand together and be proud of the amazing diversity that humanity encompasses.”

Christine Lee, Romani Cultural and Arts Company Community Champion says: “Meaningful change for the LGBTQI Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community is not going to come from just knowing more information, but from doing something with it.”

European Commission High Level Group on non-discrimination, diversity and equality Subgroup on Equality Data

​The National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups’ Policy Officer, Adrian Jones, gave a presentation on “Key equalities issues for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities in the UK” to the European Commission High Level Group on non-discrimination, diversity and equality Subgroup on Equality Data in London on 8th March 2019. Adrian highlighted the gaps in existing data with regard to GRT communities, issues regarding data collection and the key findings of the forthcoming Year 2 “Civil society monitoring report on implementation of the national Roma integration strategies in the United Kingdom” – as soon as it is published this report (which focusses on Employment, Housing and essential public services, the impact of health care policies and Education) will be available via this website.

Gypsy, Roma & Traveller History Month Childrens Festival 2019

Date: Monday 8th July 2019 – 10.30am – 3pm

Venue: St David’s Hall, The Hayes, Cardiff CF10 1AH

SOME INFORMATION ABOUT THE EVENT:

Challenge your opinions, indulge in the culture and share in the activities that demonstrate a rich cultural heritage within Wales. It’s free to adults and children alike from all backgrounds and communities!

There will be films, live performances, art, and exhibitions that showcase the cultural diversity of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller community in Wales. You will be astonished and engaged by the amazing skills, heritage, stories, history, art, theatre and dance that will be displayed throughout the day. Whatever your background, ability, perception or age, come and join this ever growing annual event that provide fun for all the family.

Isaac Blake Director of the Romani Cultural and Arts Company says “We are proud to be leading on this successful programme again in 2019. It is exciting to be able to link up so many different communities to celebrate tolerance and diversity.”

Dr Adrian Marsh, “Gypsy, Roma, Traveller History Month is the opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary genius of the Romani and Traveller communities in all their rich diversity and their contribution to Welsh and more broadly, British society, in the face of almost overwhelming prejudice and intolerance. The Romani language has influenced popular English, with words such as “dad”, “pal”, “kushti” and others that even appear in Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ (dukka me, or ‘I fortell’); Romani culture has brought the fairy-tale from its Indian origins to Britain, herbal lore and medicines, puppets, plays and mummery; all these owe their origins or were profoundly influenced by Romani culture from the east. Metal-working and complex smithying were trades that were carried by Travellers and Romani communities through the British Isles, along with horses and trading in dogs, birds and rabbits. Fortune-telling and entertainment of all kinds were widely considered to be the prerogative of Romani people from the medieval period to the early twentieth century, especially in rural Britain. Much of what is considered English, Scottish or Welsh ‘folk’ music and dance owes its existence to Romani traditions and Irish ‘traditional’ music is almost entirely based in the heritage of the Travelling people. The History Month is a chance to rediscover the contribution to the past and the present that Romani and Traveller people have made and to recognise that our history has been hidden.”

Jane Hutt, Deputy Minister and Chief Whip said: “During Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History month, there will be many great opportunities to engage in the heritage and culture of Gypsy, Roma and Travellers. “As a society, we need to ensure we’re open and tolerant of all communities, and events such as these help to build relationships and have a better understanding of the cultural significance of marginalised groups.“The Welsh Government are committed to improving equality, providing opportunities and narrowing the gaps experienced by Gypsies, Roma and Travellers throughout Wales.”

Civil society monitoring reportsThe FIRST MONITORING CYCLE(2017) of the National Roma Integration Strategies reviewed key structural preconditions of successful implementation: fighting discrimination and antigypsyism, governance and overall policy framework (including Roma participation, coordination structures, use of European Structural and Investment Funds), anti-discrimination and fighting antigypsyism, and for the countries with largest Roma communities (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia) also the impact of mainstream education policies on Roma.

A synthesis of civil society’s reports on the implementation of national Roma integration strategies in the European Union:Focusing on structural and horizontal preconditions for a successful implementation, along with a link to the UK report (produced by National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups, Friends Families and Travellers, Roma Community Care and Roma Support Group) is available here: https://cps.ceu.edu/roma-civil-monitor-reports​A second report focusing on Accommodation, Education, Employment and Health will be available in a few months time. As soon as it’s available we’ll put a link to it on here.

OPEN CALL FOR ROMA YOUTH ACTIVISTS AND ORGANIZATIONS until 20 FEBRUARY 2019This is your chance to raise the voices of Roma youth during the EU Roma Week, hosted by the European Parliament, European Commission and civil society around the International Day against Racism (21 March 2019). Join the 5-days lasting Roma Youth Advocacy Training (16-22 March 2019) in Brussels to learn about European policy-making and civil society advocacy, and to raise young voices to combat antigypsyism and to advance important issues for Roma communities.

This five days lasting training will gather 40 young Roma and non-Roma activists in order to strengthen their capacity as young advocates and leaders to tackle antigypsyism. During the seminar, the group will raise voices against antigypsyism targeting EU level actors, like Members of the European Parliament and European Commission. The advocacy seminar is part of the “EU Roma Week” around the International Day against Racism (21 March) and ahead of the 8 April – International Roma Day. This five days lasting seminar is organized by ternYpe International Roma Youth Network, ERGO Network, Phiren Amenca and the Documentation and Cultural Centre & Central Council of German Sinti and Roma.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVESThe seminar aims to strengthen the capacity of the participants to understand the structures and working mechanisms of the EU institutions, as well as the current EU policies concerning Roma and against racism, and to develop advocacy strategies and campaigns raising-awareness about antigypsyism on European level.The objectives of the activity are to:

Get to know the European Union institutions and to understand their working mechanisms, and policies towards Roma, in particular of the European Parliament and European Commission;

Build a dialogue and bring a Roma youth perspective to DG Justice (responsible for Roma policies in the European Commission), to DG EAC (Education and Culture, includes the youth sector in the European Commission), as well as to Members of the European Parliament in particular of ARDI (Anti-Racism and Diversity Intergroup);

Learn about the work of the EU umbrella organizations and contribute to their work;

Raise awareness of the participants about antigypsyism, and the current anti-racism policies;

Raise awareness of the participants about the Brussels-based civil society structures and their strategies against antigypsyism and racism (in particular ERGO Network, ENAR (European Network against Racism) and the European Youth Forum);

Develop a youth actions against antigypsyism and on Roma youth perspectives during the “EU Roma Week” of the European Parliament;

Raise awareness of Members of the European Parliament, European Commission staff and Brussels based advocates about the recognition of the Roma Holocaust and of antigypsyism, which was acknowledged in April 2015 by a European Parliament resolution.

“EU Roma Week” in the European ParliamentRoma Week 2019 (18-21 March) aims to build on the work done during previous Roma Weeks and build on the landmark own-initiative report that the European Parliament adopted in October 2017 on “Fundamental rights aspects in Roma integration in the EU: fighting anti-Gypsyism” which called upon the European Commission and EU Member States to put the fight against antigypsyism at the forefront of efforts for the social and economic inclusion of Roma. Roma Week aims to do this by raising the voices of people who are affected by antigypsyism.Profile of participants Present will be Roma and non-Roma youth leaders, activists, multipliers, and volunteers who are active in Roma communities and experienced in working with Roma communities and/or Roma youth. We aim to create a balanced group of experience participants and participants who have NOT participated in the training previously, and who demonstrate a strong interest in advocacy and political participation. Participants must also:

be able and committed to act as young advocates and multipliers in youth work on the themes of anti-discrimination, combating racism and antigypsyism and promotion of human rights with young Roma, for the benefit of Roma communities and Roma youth;

be motivated to develop their competences in advocacy, anti-discrimination work, human rights education and youth work and to share their experiences with other participants;

be actively committed and involved in a Roma (youth) initiative, advocacy group or organization;

be aged between 18 – 30 years;

be committed to attend for the full duration of the course;

be able to work in English, or check with the coordination that translation can be provided through other participants or team members;

be resident in one of the following countries: EU Member States + Macedonia

DATES OF THE ACTIVITYArrival: March 16, 2019 (Saturday) Program days: March 17 to March 21, 2019Departure: March 22, 2019 ​APPLICATION AND SELECTIONComplete Info Pack: download pdf How to apply? Register in the online application formApplication deadline: February 20, 2019 (end of day)Selection procedure: If you fit into the participants’ profile, you may submit an application until February 20 at midnight Central European Time. The preparatory team will select up the participants on the basis of the profile outlined above, ensuring also a balance between genders, geographical regions, different types of experiences and organizations. Within few days, we will inform the candidates whether their application has been accepted or rejected.ANY QUESTIONS?Contact info@ergonetwork.org, or ternype@romayouth.com

Joint Submission to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights

The National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups and Friends, Families and Travellers have made a joint submission to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights. To read the submission click here

Civil society monitoring report on implementation of the national Roma integration strategies in the United Kingdom​NFGLG is the lead organisation in a coalition of four GRT NGOs working on a two year long project: ‘Capacity-building for Roma civil society and strengthening its involvement in the monitoring of National Roma Integration Strategies’. To download the first year report focusing on structural and horizontal preconditions for successful implementation of the strategy) click on “Europe” on the drop-down menu above.

Visit to the UK of the United Nations’ Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance

​Ms. E. Tendayi Achiume, the United Nations’ Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance met with GRT Organisations during her visit to the United Kingdom in April/May this year. To view her “End of mission” statement go to https://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=23073&LangID=EThe joint Friends, Families and Travellers and National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups submission to the Special Rapporteur is available here

To view the joint submission from Friends, Families and Travellers and the National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups to the UN Special Rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance click here.

No Space for Hate Event, Birmingham 15th September 2017

​The National Federation of Gypsy Liaison Groups held a very successful and well-attended event at Highgate Baptist Church in Birmingham on 15th September as the culmination of our "No Space for Hate" project in Birmingham. Speakers included representatives from the Crown Prosecution Service, West Midlands Police, Hertfordshire Gypsy and Traveller Empowerment, Derbyshire Gypsy Liaison Group, Victim Support, Hope Not Hate, Love Your Neighbour and brap. This project, which brought people from different ethnic and faith communities together to address the causes and effects of hate crime and examine what we can do to counter it, is one on which we intend to build.

Photographs below show the fantastic art installation on the Holocaust and present day Hate Crime by young local artist Chantelle Boyle as well as a section of the audience on the day.

Major New European StudyNFGLG have been involved in a major study for the Open Society European Policy Institute: “REVISITING THE EU ROMA FRAMEWORK: Assessing the European Dimension for the Post-2020 Future”

Travelling Ahead now has new funding to develop a Wales Advice and Advocacy Service for Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities (young people and families) around Wales – we can offer advice, advocacy and support on a whole range of issues and will find someone who can help if we can’t. For a summary of the new project have a look here http://www.travellingahead.org.uk/rights-advice/wales-advice-advocacy-serviceAs part of this we have a new FREEPHONE Advice Line and have new team members based in the North and West starting soon as well as south Wales.Please update your records or website directories to reflect the new project and our changed contact details – our website, FB and Twitter have stayed the same - and we look forward to working with you in the coming monthsTravelling Ahead –Telephone: Advice Line 0808 802 0025Office: 01633 509 544Email: travellingahead@trosgynnalplant.org.uk

Combating Institutional Anti-Gypsyism: Responses and promising practices in the EU and selected Member States

NFGLG contributed, alongside partner organisations in Europe, to an action-focused report produced by CEPS (Centre for European Policy Studies). To find out more about the report (andfind a link so that you can download a copy) please go to the "Europe" page on this website.

Rooftop Housing Group and the Worcestershire Traveller Education Service (TES) have rewarded star pupils with laptops to help them study. Children from the Gypsy and Traveller community are amongst the lowest achieving groups in schools in England, with typically low attendance. The TES and Rooftop Housing Group have been working together to turn this trend around and to give children from the Houndsfield Lane community something to work towards. The project motivates children that fall below an 85% attendance rate to stay in school, and get the best opportunities that education can bring them. 5 Children who now have over 90% attendance were awarded laptops by Rooftop Housing Group’s Chief Executive Ian Hughes at a special ceremony held at Wythall Library. Tony Henderson Rooftops’ Gypsy and Traveller Project Manager said “this is an exciting project that will help and enable the children at Houndsfield Lane to achieve educational outcomes and is the first step in Rooftop delivering more than just housing to our Gypsy and Traveller customers”.

This is an appeal to build up a legal fund to challenge the Government’s recent change to the planning definition of Gypsies and Travellers in planning policy which will make it impossible for those who have stopped travelling permanently on grounds of old age or ill health from seeking planning permission for a Gypsy or Traveller site.

Please give what you can spare to help us fight this cruel and inhumane policy change.

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